Prelate to VP Sara: Respond to issues with dignity

FILE: Vice President Sara Duterte briefed senators on proposed 2025 budget of the Office of Vice President (OVP). For next year, the OVP is seeking a budget of P2.037 billion, which will be allotted to personal services, maintenance and other operating expenses, and capital outlay. (Photo: Voltaire F. Domingo/Senate Social Media Unit via Senate of the Philippines/Facebook)

By Ferdinand Patinio, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – Vice President Sara Duterte should address issues with dignity and respect, especially on issues relating to the deceased, a prelate has said.

“It is important to approach statements that involve desecration of human remains with reverence and respect, especially in the context of Catholic teachings on the dignity of the deceased and the sanctity of life. The Catholic Church holds that every human being, even in death, deserves respect and dignity, as their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and vessels of God’s creation,” Fr. Joel Saballa of the Diocese of Novaliches said in an interview over Church-run Radio Veritas over the weekend.

Saballa said any expression that advocates this type of move would not help maintain understanding and respect in society.

“It is essential to remember that even individuals with whom we may have disagreements or conflicts deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, both in life and in death,” he added.

Saballa also urged for a peaceful dialogue amid the tensions between some groups and supporters of the Vice President.

“In times of controversy or discord, it is crucial to seek solutions through peaceful dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation, rather than through actions
that promote further division or hostility,” he said.

He also called on the faithful to adhere to the teachings of the Church regarding caring, forgiveness and respect for the dignity of each one.

“In times of controversy or discord, it is crucial to seek solutions through peaceful dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation, rather than through actions that promote further division or hostility,” Saballa added.

In a press conference last week, Duterte said she would exhume the remains of the late former president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. from the Libingan ng mga Bayani if the attacks against her do not stop.